HI SB825

Establishes a temporary Puerto Rican exchange commission to coordinate cultural exchange programs between Hawaii and Puerto Rico honoring Puerto Rican contributions to Hawaii since their arrival on December 23, 1900.

Commission consists of 15 members appointed by the governor, including designated representatives from five Puerto Rican organizations and ten members representing government, labor, business, culture, and the community at large.

Commission shall develop and coordinate cultural exchange programs including workshops on Hawaiian dance and lei making, music performances, and art presentations, while considering plans from interested Puerto Rican organizations.

Commission must design and construct a monument commemorating the arrival of the first Puerto Ricans to Hawaii that shall be donated to and placed in Puerto Rico.

Commission must submit a comprehensive report to the governor and legislature prior to the 2016 regular session and a final report at the end of its term; commission ceases operations on June 30, 2017.